<p>Wow, I'd of thought that if they were sharp enought to get an appointment they'd be smart enough to make better choices.</p>
<p>KSMarinerdad--actually 4 did not make it through the drug test last year, 2 from fourth co. Drug testing can be tricky. Most drugs are metabolized within a 3 day period, but marijuana takes much much longer. Some candidates do not actually want to go to the academy. They were pressured by parents, etc. and figure it's an easy out. Some kids partake during their civilian life and get caught when they get to the academy, because it has not completely cleared their system. There are a hundred different reasons why it happens. It's a shame, but sadly, a fact. Hoping that this class does not have that problem.</p>
<p>....all the officers switched around so that 4th co guys are now
in 2nd company and 2nd company guys are 4th co officers..?????.Also,... the old weight lifting coach is now the Commadant... I'm surprised by the company switching...</p>
<p>kathynp - thanks for the clarification I appreciate it. It saddens me too but it looks like this class generally has a good attitude based on the comments on some of the forums, so hopefully......</p>
<p>I am so glad I found these posts. I was feeling a little cut off from my son, but with all the indoc pix and the You Tube videos and this board, I feel so much better. Thanks to all!</p>
<p>Back to the You Tube videos, it is so nice to see the kids look like they are having fun. I would have loved to see those belly flops on video, though!</p>
<p>OUCH! There was a belly flop on You Tube last year. Maybe someone will post one this year.</p>
<p>PC parents: If you'd like to get a sneak peak of Parents Weekend - swearing in and Beat Retreat - check out my videos on youtube... search for pjrmom.</p>
<p>Cool videos! Can you explain exactly what Beat Retreat is, though? I don't think I've seen any explanation about it and why it is important.</p>
<p>Beat Retreat is deeply rooted in military tradition. I will defer to those on this forum who are more informed to fill you in properly as my definition would not do it the justice it deserves. But it is a MUST DO on Parents Weekend...the PCs carry the flags and they try to have them carry their own state's flag. However, there are exceptions like my son who is from Pennsylvania, but he carried the Illinois flag. Not sure of why that was, but it was fun to watch.</p>
<p>Do the soon to be Plebes need a state flag from their state? Thought I saw mention of that on a site a while ago</p>
<p>My son got a state flag from our state representative before he left (thanks to the Northern New England Parents Association!). He told me Sunday to hold off on sending it, so I imagine they need it shortly before Acceptance Day.</p>
<p>Not all PCs participate, and even if they do, not all need a flag. Yours will let you know if he needs one. My son did not have one and participated - but again, he didn't carry his own state flag.</p>
<p>Lol MMAMOM, my son is from Virginia, but he carried Tennessee at Beat Retreat....go figure! Anyway, they can hang their state flags...I think it is the only "decoration" they are allowed in their rooms as plebes.</p>